Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT)

RHINOSINUSITIS

Rhinosinusitis refers to inflammation of nasal cavity and the sinuses. There are 4 paranasal sinuses in the human skull.

Functions of paranasal sinuses:

• Reduce apparent weight of the head
• Humidifying and heating inhaled air
• Increasing resonance of speech
• Acting as crumple zone to protect vital structures in the event of facial trauma

Changes leading to Rhinosinusitis:

1. Viral infection causing mucosal inflammation which obstructs sinus opening
2. Impaired sinus ventilation causing congestion and mucous retention
3. Impaired clearance of inflammatory debris and infectious material
4. Ideal environment for bacterial growth in sinus cavity

Signs & symptoms of Rhinosinusitis:

• Fever with nasal block
• Foul smelling and purulent nasal discharge
• Facial pain & pressure
• Headache
• Loss of smell
• Post nasal drip causing cough & purulent phlegm
• Bad breath

Complications of Rhinosinusitis:

• Orbital abscess
• Intracranial infection
• Osteomyelitis of frontal or maxillary bones

Sinusitis which did not respond to nasal spray and antibiotics can be treated surgically via ENDOSCOPIC SINUS SURGERY. This surgery is done within nasal cavity via the use of endoscope which is inserted inside the nose to provide a detailed view of the nasal cavity.

For consultation & more information, visit Dr Ganesh ENT clinic in Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat for further examination and or click here for appointment

ENT Myth Busting with Dr. Chow Tuck Kit, Consultant ENT at Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat.

Let’s focus on a common misconception: The belief that tilting your head backwards and plugging your nose can effectively halt nasal bleeding.

Nasal bleeding, or nosebleeds, occur when blood vessels within the nasal tissues rupture. Interestingly, many patients often share the advice they've received to combat nosebleeds by tilting their heads back and blocking their noses.

However, this approach can be counterproductive. Tilting your head backwards only encourages blood to flow into your throat, potentially leading to swallowing difficulties or even choking. Furthermore, forcefully stuffing your nose can exacerbate tissue damage, worsening the bleeding.

The recommended method for managing nasal bleeding involves a technique known as "trotus maneuver”. Begin by firmly pinching the soft, fleshy part of your nose to close both nostrils, applying direct pressure to the bleeding site. Avoid squeezing the upper nasal area, focusing instead on the soft tissue.

Next, lean forward, ideally over a sink, with your mouth open to facilitate breathing and expel any blood that accumulates in your mouth. Maintain this position while pinching your nose for up to 15 minutes. Remain calm throughout the process and place an ice pack over your forehead. If bleeding persists beyond this time frame, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest ENT clinic or hospital.

Remember to remain calm throughout the process and consider applying an ice pack to your forehead to alleviate discomfort.

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https://www.pantai.com.my/batu-pahat/doctors/chow-tuck-kit